Following a fall, a patient is brought to the emergency department. There was a brief loss of consciousness. The patient complains of headache, has vomited twice, has a dilated pupil on the same side as a hematoma over the temporal area, and is currently having a seizure. What should the nurse anticipate regarding the care of this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The combination of a loss of consciousness, headache, vomiting, dilated pupil on the same side as the hematoma, and seizure all indicate a likely epidural hematoma. This is a medical emergency that requires surgery to relieve the pressure on the brain. Delay in diagnosis and treatment can lead to severe brain damage or death.

Following a Fall, a Patient Is Brought to the Emergency